Tag Archives: Kentucky Derby

Hats and Horses

Hats and horses are paired annually the first Saturday in May for the Kentucky Derby. No need to be near Kentucky, nor have a race track, but everyone can enjoy observing the tradition with a derby party and fancy hats while watching the running of the famed race.

The lavish — and sometimes gaudy — hat is one of the race traditions dating as far back as the late 1800s when women were trying to look their best mingling with the rich and famous owners and attendees in the clubhouse and paddock areas. A lady certainly cannot go to the derby (still to this day) without a big hat! Feathers, flowers, ribbons and more adorn the wide variety of millinery, which is big business during spring when we have the race and other social events as great excuses for parties.

Let’s have all the trimmings, such as hors d’oeuvres, mint juleps,  music, and of course, a big hat contest and the Kentucky Derby on a big screen. Where will you be? Have a hat photo to share?